Clinical Report: Discovery of a Pigtail Catheter in the Lingula of a Pediatric Patient

Overview

This case study presents a rare instance of a malpositioned pigtail catheter identified in the lingula of a pediatric patient during flexible bronchoscopy.

Background

Thoracostomy tube placement is critical in managing pneumothoraces, particularly in pediatric patients. Complications from chest tube insertion can lead to significant morbidity, including damage to thoracic organs.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data presented in the article.

Key Findings

• A 10-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis developed bilateral pneumothoraces and pneumomediastinum.
• The patient required emergent bilateral chest tube insertion and VV-ECMO support.
• A pigtail catheter was unexpectedly found in the lingula during bronchoscopy.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential in managing complex pediatric cases.

Clinical Implications

Regular imaging and careful evaluation of chest tube placement are critical to prevent complications.

Conclusion

This case highlights the need for vigilant assessment of chest tube placement.

Related Resources & Content

1. IDSA/PIDS 2026 Guidelines for the Management of Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) in Infants and Children Older Than 3 Months of Age
2. Seldinger technique | Pleural Drains in Adults | Agency for Clinical Innovation
3. Pediatric Cardiology — Innovative Applications of the SwiftNinja Steerable Microcatheter in Pediatric Cardiac Procedures
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7. IDSA/PIDS 2026 Guidelines for the Management of Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) in Infants and Children Older Than 3 Months of Age
8. Seldinger technique | Pleural Drains in Adults | Agency for Clinical Innovation
9. Clinical utilization of bronchoscopy in the ICU: indications, complications, and perspectives | Anesthesiology and Perioperative Science | Springer Nature Link